Celebrating 126 Years of Kindness

126 years ago today, Anna Harris Smith, a social worker from Dorchester, was called to action after seeing the cruel mistreatment of Boston’s working horses and the number of stray and homeless animals. She advocated for a centrally located shelter to care for them and remarked, “While getting dogs and cats off the street is work worth doing, the teaching of thoughtful kindness is the work that changes families, communities, and a nation”.

 

A historical photo of a woman sitting on a bench with dogs, outside.

Anna Harris Smith, ARL’s Founder

On March 13, 1899, thanks to Anna’s efforts, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) was officially incorporated and began helping millions of animals heal, find homes, and stay with their families while protecting them from cruelty and neglect.

In honor of her legacy of kindness and commitment to animals, we are excited to celebrate Anna Harris Smith Day with you!

2024: Kindness in Action

    • 255,194 pet meals provided to the community
    • 3,518 animals welcomed into new homes
    • 1,164 dedicated volunteers contributed 141,856 hours helping animals in need
    • 216 children and teens attended humane education events
    • 52 corporate groups with 610 employees contributed 1,818 hours
    • 38 volunteers received the Golden VOL-ley Award in recognition of their spirit of collaboration

Four Ways You Can Spread Kindness Today

    1. Stock ARL’s pet food pantry! Donate pet food through ARL’s Amazon or Chewy wish lists and have them shipped directly to ARL; or purchase them in-store and drop them off at one of our Animal Care & Adoption Centers in Boston, Dedham, or Brewster.
    2. Advocate for animals! Contact advocacy@arlboston.org to learn more about our legislative agenda and how you can contact your legislator and ask them to support bills that protect animals.
    3. Be kind! Do a random act of kindness in your community today. The possibilities are endless! Walk your neighbor’s dog, volunteer at your local library or nursing home, bring in treats for your coworkers, send a care package to a service member, give blood, or donate old sheets and towels to your local animal shelter.
    4. Pay it forward with a donation to Jeff’s Fund, which helps offset the cost of waived or reduced adoption fees to help animals who may be overlooked due to their medical needs, age, or personality, find the homes they deserve.